Use of Gestalt Therapy within a Drug Treatment Program

Traditional therapeutic approaches have not demonstrated great success with drug addicts. This article presents a Gestalt Therapeutic approach that has shown promise within a drug treatment program. The major issues discussed include: the acquisition of self-support, taking responsibility, dealing with anxiety, contact, and the expression of pent-up feelings. Also discussed is the manner in which these issues are approached. Focusing on what is happening in the present intensifies the feelings and process experienced, thus creating a more meaningful encounter. The role of the therapist-patient relationship is also presented. This paper attempts to combine the actual therapeutic procedures used with drug addicts, with the theoretical constructs on which they are based.